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A heaping platter of crunchy, gooey nachos might be simple, yet its power to satisfy and comfort is undeniable. Whether flaunting pork, brisket or pickled onions, this cheese-shellacked blanket of tortilla chips is especially cherished during football season. To satisfy your cravings during these football-free weeks before the big game, check out 10 of of the country's best takes on this humble staple of Tex-Mex joints in our
full gallery.

Los Angeles: Border Grill (pictured above)

Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, the dames behind modern Mexican institution Border Grill, are known for their Skillet Nachos. At the downtown Los Angeles location — as well as in Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay and the Forum Shops at Caesars — the dish arrives piled high with housemade tortilla chips, from-scratch cheese sauce, organic black beans and tender morsels of carne asada.

Before eyeing the smoked bacon hash-brown casserole at The Family Dog, consider the nachos. Brisket and short rib unite in Chef Ron Eyester's meaty interpretation at this Morningside favorite. They're layered with pico de gallo and pickled jalapeno peppers, and good ol’ white American queso adds a familiar spin.

Nachos are a standout at Little Goat, Stephanie Izard’s more casual River North sibling to Girl and the Goat. Hefty portions of barbecue pork, pickled peppers, beans, cheddar, sour cream and avocado sit atop housemade masa chips. But don't think that will stop you from ordering the Choco Taco, a sundae in which those chips get dipped in velvety chocolate.